@andrewrose said:

Onto the playoffs indeed. Nice recap. With the post-season berth firmly in place it's pretty common for a bit of a phoned-in regular season finale. No cause for concern there. Appreciate the survey of the tour-to-date as well.

Is 8/12/15 better than 8/31/12? Probably not, at least for my tastes. But it's certainly close. What's more important is that I think the other top-tier offerings from this tour (especially 7/31 and 8/7) come pretty close as well. I do think 8/12 is the best front to back show of the tour, but there's so much good stuff on offer. I would add 8/8 to the list of notable shows to check out. Don't know why I have a such a soft spot for this one.

Important point raised regarding first sets here too. While I'm sure 8/9 I was a blast in person, I'm much more into something like 7/31 I, that offers something substantive in the way of jamming. Combine the rarities / bustouts / segue sandwiches with a meaty jam or too and you've got yourself a perfect first frame. Good chance we'll see more of these in the post-season.

It hurts to not be seeing a show this tour, but I haven't been this engaged and tuned in years. Go Phish. Championship or bust.

Second that....

Blossom's first set was great too - both in person and on tape. The playing was great, 'jammy' (as you point out w/ Lakewood), and really did have a positive vibe and infectious sort of energy. Those who like tight, condensed playing, a la some west coast summer 97, will like the Timber, Ice, Wingsuit, and Gin.....

A lot of other contenders, but Mann I is really nice. The playing on a tune like Crowd Control alone is unique and remarkable; and then you have the rest. The 'theme' is really cool, too, and is less erratic the Furry Cat.

Know there is a lot of love for Alpine. Pretty exciting, but, after the dust settles, and other sets arise.... Be nice is the Sloth and Esther get another spin.

But to be discussing first sets is a cool thing.